I feel like I begin most articles with this observation, so I probably sound like a broken record at this point.  But the fact of the matter is that a lot of us have a lot going on a lot of the time, which leads to --- you guessed it --- a lot of stress.  One of the most pronounced and pervasive problems in the workplace is the reality of burnout, so it’s worth examining from multiple angles.

Along with judicious time-management and efficient organization, establishing a true, well-defined work-life balance is one of the best preventive steps you can take to avoid running on “E.”  Both you and those around you will be thankful for the clear boundaries that you set.  And you stand to benefit both personally and professionally from a healthy distinction between work and play.

Strike that desired balance by incorporating the practices below into your daily routine:

1. Define your priorities.  In many ways, this is Square #1 on your path to an enduring work-life balance.  In order to determine how much time and energy to devote to each sphere of your life, you first need to think through how to order what you value.
   
   
   • If you’re trying to establish yourself and advance professionally, you may find that your work requires special attention. If you invest well and wisely in your role, you’ll likely be able to progress as you desire.
     
     
   • Perhaps you’re craving more family time. This may require you to be more selective in what you say “Yes” to outside of the home.  Don’t feel guilty for carving out quality time with your loved ones.
     
     
   • There may be times when your priorities seem to be at odds with one another.  In those instances, it’ll be especially important that you weigh the opportunity costs involved in each and try to negotiate a happy medium.  Your current priorities may --- and in all likelihood will --- change in the future.

2. Be realistic.  In living out your priorities, don’t overextend yourself.  Do your best to discern what is essential and, as important, what isn’t  Your time is precious, so try not to become preoccupied with things that can and ought to wait.
   
   
   • You may aspire to join every club and association in the Greater Memphis area, but more than likely, you’ll be most effective if you pursue membership in an organization (or two) with which your interests and expertise closely align.
     
     
   • Perhaps you’d like to further your education or undergo professional development of some sort.  Be thoughtful and strategic about the timing, so that your priorities remain in order.
     
     
   • Set an example for those around you.  If others see that you’re able to set (and keep) healthy limitations, they may try to emulate this themselves, which will shape your workplace culture and family dynamic for the better.

3. Strive for consistency.  Whether on or off the clock, be fully present and engaged.  As best you can, try to avoid “cross-contamination” between different priorities, preserving the boundaries you’ve established.
   
   
   • This is especially important for the sake of your loved ones.  Honor the commitments you make --- whether it’s a dinner with your significant other, a ballgame in which your child’s playing, or a night out with friends.
     
     
   • Occasionally (and inevitably), surprises will surface that will require you to remain at the office longer than anticipated.  When the unexpected happens, don’t beat yourself up and thank your loved ones for their grace and understanding.

4. See it through to completion.  Once you’ve defined your priorities, get after ’em.  Devote the necessary time, energy, and resources to accomplish what you’ve deemed worthy of effort and attention.
   
   
   • I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage, “Work hard, play hard.”  Well, it bears repeating: while at work, really work, so that in your personal time, you’ll be free from the fetters of unfinished assignments.
     
     
   • Likewise, maximize your personal time by minimizing your distractions.  If your aim is to escape your screen at work, try not to hop on another screen at home.  Keep the TV off, tuck your smartphone away, and pour yourself into whatever personal projects are calling your name.

As with most anything, practice makes perfect.  The more faithful you are to these steps, the more likely you will be to achieve a stellar balance between the many priorities that you juggle.

Before long, you’ll find that you’re prepared for new and even greater responsibilities, having successfully managed and mastered the demands that you currently face.